Can you pass the potatoes — and by the way, how on Earth could you vote for that candidate?

Thanksgiving is upon us, which means some families may be serving up a side of political talk around the dinner table. A contentious midterm election that led to a new governor in Wisconsin and Democratic control of the U.S. House is still not far from people's minds.

So, how do you handle the potential barbs from your uncle or granddaughter without spoiling your appetite? How do you stomach comments from that relative with whom you disagree on everything?

USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin turned to some experts to help you ensure the oven is the most heated thing in your home.

Is political talk always bad?

Not at all, said Andrew Austin, a professor of sociology at the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay. A lot of families enjoy discussing politics, he said, and the debate that occurs within the context of family solidarity doesn't necessarily present a problem.

Plus, political conversation is an important part of Americans' civic duty, Austin said. And he believes doing so among trustworthy loved ones presents a great opportunity, particularly in a time when civil debate is on the decline.

"I think as a nation we need to talk about the hard questions," he said.

UWGB psychology professor Ryan Martin agrees that these conversations can be healthy and productive, but he also noted that it assumes everyone is emotionally mature — which isn't always the case. And it's important for people to consider their goals if they engage in a political debate with relatives, he said.

"If you’re trying to win a political argument or something like that, you’re unlikely to be successful," he said. "If you’re trying to convince someone, you’re unlikely to be successful."

Rehearse lines like 'I'm just not going to talk about politics today' and refrain from indulging in catastrophic thinking.(Photo: bhofack2, Getty Images/iStockphoto)

Instead, approach the conversation by saying you want to understand the other person's point of view, said Lee Shipway, executive director of Peaceful Solutions Counseling in Wausau. Then, be respectful and "keep your mouth shut," she said.

Putting out the fire

To rein in a discussion, Austin suggested people be very clear about their positions and find facts they can agree upon. There's also nothing wrong with pressing pause if things get tense, he said.

And if you're feeling uncomfortable, Shipway said, let your relatives know. They're more likely to simmer down if you're honest about how the conversation is impacting you emotionally.

"When you lead with your feelings, it makes you much more human, and people hear you much better," she said.

And it's important to remember that a difficult debate doesn't mean the people involved love each other any less, Austin said.

"I don’t think it’s a sign of weakness at all to step in at a certain point to say, 'I love you. I just don’t agree with you,'" he said.

Or you can stick to food

Everyone agreed there's nothing wrong with instituting a "no politics" rule and focusing instead on breaking bread together. This could be especially helpful if families have a history of intense political arguments, Shipway said.

"It’s really powerful if the person hosting says that," she said.

You may want to hang this sign on the door before Thanksgiving dinner.(Photo: USA Today Network illustration)

To help avoid political discussion, Martin suggested people come up with other topics to discuss — ask them how work has been lately, for example. But he noted that politics can be a natural place to go, particularly among relatives who may only see each other a few times of year.